Welcome to the Ursuline High School and Wimbledon College Sixth Form

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1 Welcome to the School and Sixth Form This is an exciting time to be choosing Sixth Form courses. In this booklet, we will give you information about the range of courses which reflect the shared academic and vocational provision of the School and. For each course there will be details of the examination board used by that subject, a brief course outline, details of the knowledge and skills that you will be developing as a student and an overview of how you will be assessed and examined. More detailed information relating to the courses offered is available on the subject flyers available on the Sixth Form Open Evening. Please be aware that some elements of courses are still being finalised, so there may be changes to elements of course content or examination boards. In addition, it is also worth noting that we expect to offer all the courses below, but staffing constraints or student choices may mean that we are unable to offer some courses. Choosing the right course We offer a range of courses, with different pathways based on prior attainment at GCSE. Below is an explanation of some of the terminology we use: Advanced Level These are two year courses. Some are examined at the end of the two year course. Others have AS components which are examined in Year 12. These contribute to the overall A level qualification. You may be aware that most A level qualifications have changed in 2015 to a linear Alevel course and others are changing in 2016 and 2017; details of these changes follow later in this course guide. Applied Advanced Level These courses run over two years and are available both as a Single Award, equivalent to one A Level and a Double Award, equivalent to two A Levels. They have a more general vocational feel to them. GCSE These are one year courses, similar to those you will have studied over the last two years. If you have not passed Mathematics and or English Literature or language with at least a C grade, you will have to opt for the relevant course for you. All students on our Level 2 programme will take English Literature, English Language and Mathematics, as improving grades in these subjects is essential for progressing to a wide range of both academic and vocational qualifications, as well as Apprenticeships. To help you choose the right course, you should talk to your tutor, Head of Year or Head of Sixth Form. Both schools also have specialist careers advisors. Your present teachers have a very good idea of your abilities and the courses which will suit you. If you are new to the Sixth Form you will be able to access advice after applying. Remember that final decisions about which subjects or courses can be followed are made in August in the light of examination results and career aspirations. When choosing courses you should consider: Which subjects I like best and enjoy? Which courses do I need to do to qualify for the university, college courses or apprenticeships I want to do and for my future career? Does the package of courses look sensible and keep doors open for future progression? What do my GCSE grades tell me about my strengths and abilities and for which courses am I qualified? School and Course Guide

2 Course guide list of courses on offer Level 3 Two Year Courses BTEC 3 courses or equivalent Science (Double Award) Business Studies (Double Award) Medical Science (Single Award) Business Studies (Triple Award) Medical Science (Double Award) IT (Diploma) Advanced Level Art and Design Biology Business Studies Chemistry Computing Drama and Theatre Studies Economics English Language English Literature English Literature and Language Film Studies Food Technology French Geography German Government and Politics Graphics Health and Social Care (Applied A Level, both Single and Double award) History Further Mathematics Mathematics Music Photography Physics Psychology Religious Education Sociology Spanish Physical Education Level 2 One Year Courses Certificate in preparation for working life Mathematics English Literature English Language Leisure and Tourism Sociology Humanities Creative Digital Media Production Vocational Courses Vocational courses follow a broad programme of study which keeps students options open for employment, further training or further and higher education. The main difference between A Levels and vocational courses is the structure of the programme and the methods of assessment. Students enjoy the variety, flexibility and independence which vocational courses offer, as each course is made up of units which are gained separately. Vocational courses give students an opportunity to try out all sorts of activities. Students work on their own and as part of a team, do short projects and longer assignments, and many gain experience in the workplace. Students take more responsibility for their own learning. Vocational courses give them opportunities to decide what to do and how to go about it. Students work is assessed by coursework and tests as they go along, giving them targets at which to aim. Because students develop skills in an area of work, they can see how relevant their course is to life after school. Students on vocational courses are very often better prepared for university style independent learning than students on non-vocational courses. Many students will choose to study both vocational and non-vocational courses together, thus increasing their skill set and keeping many options open for progression onto Level 3 courses, or into university or apprenticeships. The Level 2 Offer Students with the grades relevant to be on this one year course will study English Literature, English Language and Mathematics as part of their core studies. These subjects are of paramount importance in gaining access to apprenticeships, into the world of work and also onto Level 3 courses. In addition, there will be a choice of subjects from which to choose, offered by both School and. These will not be subjects that you have studied before, as our experience (and research) shows that students do better when on new courses. Changes To Advanced Levels You may well be aware that the Government has changed several aspects of Advanced Level subjects. At the time of writing these can be summarised as follows: Some subjects have a new specification from this September Of the subjects affected, listed below are those that we offer: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Literature, English Language, English Language and Literature, Art, Graphics, Photography, History, Psychology, Sociology, Business Studies, Economics The subjects that change to the 2 year A-level courses from September 2016 are French, Spanish and German, Physical education, Drama, Music, Geography, Politics and Religious studies. The only subjects that remain on the old specification and therefore have AS exams at the end of Year 12 are: Maths, Further Maths, Food technology, Film Studies and Health and Social Care which are due to change in The second change is that the AS will be a stand-alone qualification and will not count towards the A level. At A level you will be examined on all of the modules that you have studied over Years 12 and 13. Our offer is subject to any further changes made by the government and Ofqual. 2 School and Course Guide 2016

3 Art & Design New Linear A Level Course outline: The Art and Design course is an exciting and creative course that ensures the practical skill development of drawing, painting, photography, sculpture and design. The course provides students with opportunities to develop personal responses to ideas, observations, experiences, environments and cultures in practical, critical and contextual forms. Students gain experience of working with a range of relevant materials, processes, technologies and resources. Students explore how ideas, feelings and meanings can be conveyed and interpreted in images and artefacts developing a working vocabulary and specialist terminology. Students develop an appreciation of how images and artefacts relate to the time and place in which they were made and to their social and cultural contexts. The AS personal portfolio course is a chosen theme out of 6 set by the Examination Board worth 60% of the overall grade. The externally set examination project set by AQA is worth 40%. The students work is both internally assessed throughout the year, and externally assessed at the end of the year. The A Level contextual unit is an area of personal study that culminates in an essay of words, a portfolio of exploratory works and a final realisation worth 60% of the A Level grade. The externally set examination project set by AQA is worth 40%. The students work is both internally assessed throughout the year, and externally assessed at the end of the year. Art & Design New Linear A Level Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course Outline: A-level Art and Design provides students with opportunities to develop personal responses to ideas, observations, experiences, environments and cultures in practical, critical and contextual forms. Students are introduced to a variety of experiences employing a range of appropriate media, processes and techniques and build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE with greater depth of study. Five ideas fundamental to the course: Students develop further interest in, enthusiasm for and enjoyment of art, craft and design Students extend and develop their experience of working with a broad range of media, processes and resources Students are encouraged to develop an independence of mind in developing, refining and communicating their own ideas, their own intentions and their own personal outcomes. Students are encouraged to explore and extend their intellectual, imaginative, creative and intuitive capabilities Students develop a knowledge and understanding of art, craft, design and media in contemporary and past societies and cultures; and gain an awareness of different roles, functions, audiences and consumers of art, craft and design. AS Level The course leads to an AS Level at the end of Year 12 and is taught in 2 units: Unit 1: Personal Portfolio (50% of overall grade) comprises a portfolio of development work and outcomes based on themes and ideas developed from personal starting points. Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (50%) comprises an externally set theme with suggested starting points. Students will need to develop their own personal work from this theme and related starting points. Students work is both internally assessed throughout the year, and externally assessed at the end of the Year 12. A Level The course leads to an A Level at the end of Year 13 and is taught in 2 units: Unit 1: Personal Portfolio (60% of overall grade) comprises a portfolio of development work and outcomes based on themes and ideas developed from personal starting points and a personal study evidenced through critical written Two Year Courses communication showing contextual research and understanding in a minimum 1000 word essay, which may contain integrated images. Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%) comprises an externally set theme with suggested starting points. Students will need to develop their own personal work from this theme and related starting points. Students work is both internally assessed throughout the two years, and externally assessed at the end of the Year 13. Art & Design: Graphic Communication New Linear A Level Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course Outline: Art & Design: Graphic Communication A-level provides students with opportunities to develop personal responses to ideas, observations, experiences, environments and cultures in practical, critical and contextual forms. Students are introduced to a variety of experiences employing a range of appropriate media, processes and techniques and build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE with greater depth of study. Four ideas fundamental to the course: Students learn about meaning, function, style, scale, colour and content in Graphic Communication and develop an understanding of the way ideas; feelings and meanings can be conveyed and interpreted in images and artefacts. Students develop an ability to respond to an issue, concept or idea, working to a brief or answering a need and examine how images and artefacts relate to social, environmental, cultural and/or ethical contexts, and to the time and place in which they were created. Students develop an understanding of a variety of materials and genres and learn working vocabulary and specialist terminology. As part of this they develop an appreciation of the appropriate use of typography, signs and symbols. School and Course Guide

4 Two Year Courses Students develop knowledge, skills and understanding of the relationships between illustration and narrative, clients and audiences in Graphic Communication. AS Level The course leads to an AS Level at the end of Year 12 and is taught in 2 units: Unit 1: Personal Portfolio (50% of overall grade) comprises a portfolio of development work and outcomes based on themes and ideas developed from personal starting points. Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (50%) comprises an externally set theme with suggested starting points. Students will need to develop their own personal work from this theme and related starting points. Students work is both internally assessed throughout the year, and externally assessed at the end of the Year 12. A Level The course leads to an A Level at the end of Year 13 and is taught in 2 units: Unit 1: Personal Portfolio (60% of overall grade) comprises a portfolio of development work and outcomes based on themes and ideas developed from personal starting points and a personal study evidenced through critical written communication showing contextual research and understanding in a minimum 1000 word essay, which may contain integrated images. Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%) comprises an externally set theme with suggested starting points. Students will need to develop their own personal work from this theme and related starting points. Students work is both internally assessed throughout the two years, and externally assessed at the end of the Year 13. Art & Design: Photography New Linear A Level Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course Outline: Art & Design: Photography provides students with opportunities to develop personal responses to ideas, observations, experiences, environments and cultures in practical, critical and contextual forms. Students are introduced to a variety of experiences employing a range of appropriate media, processes and techniques and build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at AS with greater depth of study. Four ideas fundamental to the course: Students are given opportunity to explore elements of visual language, line, form, colour, pattern and texture in the context of Photography. Students develop an ability to respond to an issue, theme, concept or idea or work to a brief or answer a need in Photography. Students gain an appreciation of viewpoint, composition, depth of field and movement as well as time-based photographic techniques. Students develop an understanding of the appropriate use of the camera, film, lenses, filters and lighting for work and techniques related to the developing and printing of photographic images, where appropriate, presentation and layout. AS Level The course leads to an AS Level at the end of Year 12 and is taught in 2 units: Unit 1: Personal Portfolio (50% of overall grade) comprises a portfolio of development work and outcomes based on themes and ideas developed from personal starting points. Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (50%) comprises an externally set theme with suggested starting points. Students will need to develop their own personal work from this theme and related starting points. Students work is both internally assessed throughout the year, and externally assessed at the end of the Year 12. A Level - The course leads to an A Level at the end of Year 13 and is taught in 2 units: Unit 1: Personal Portfolio (60% of overall grade) comprises a portfolio of development work and outcomes based on themes and ideas developed from personal starting points and a personal study evidenced through critical written communication showing contextual research and understanding in a minimum 1000 word essay, which may contain integrated images. Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%) comprises an externally set theme with suggested starting points. Students will need to develop their own personal work from this theme and related starting points. Students work is both internally assessed throughout the two years, and externally assessed at the end of the Year 13. Biology New Linear A Level Course outline: In Biology you need a critical and questioning approach, enthusiasm, and a real interest in the subject. The course develops the fundamental principles of biology and helps nurture a passion for the subject through practical investigation and engaging learning. People wishing to go further in the following fields would be well suited to the course: biological sciences, medicine/medical fields, dentistry, veterinary medicine, marine biology and forensics. Students cover topics including biological molecules, cells, organisms and exchange substances. The course covers areas on genetics, variation and relationships between organisms; energy transfers in and between organisms. Students study the response to changes in internal and external environments and the control of gene expressions. The AS course consists of two externally examined papers, each of 1 hour and 30 mins each. The A Level assessment is done through three papers, each 2 hours in length. 4 School and Course Guide 2016

5 Biology New Linear A Level Edexcel - AS Level and A Level Course outline: Biology is a fascinating science - a dynamic and living subject. Arguably one of the fastest growing areas of science - new discoveries in Biology are pushing the boundaries of what we previously thought possible. Biology is not without its controversies - students of Biology need to ask important questions about when life begins and how we use the power of science. The course aims to introduce students to the fundamental principles of Biology - including life processes (respiration and photosynthesis), cell biology, genetics and ecology. The course covers three A level modules: Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics, Physiology, Evolution and Ecology, Practical Principles in Biology. The A level is taught over two years, with 3 examined modules and a coursework element. Students may have the option to take AS exams at the end of year 12, but these will only count towards a standalone AS qualification. Business Studies New Linear A Level AQA - AS Level and A Level Course outline: The course demonstrates the interrelated nature of Business using business models, theories and techniques to support analysis of contemporary business issues and situations. The content is designed to engage students through topics and issues that are relevant in today s society, through key contemporary developments such as digital technology, business ethics and globalisation topics. Students gain an understanding of what a Business is and the role of managers and leaders in decision making. Students develop a clear understanding of decision making in marketing, operational, financial and human resource performance. Building on the first modules, students develop skills of analysing the strategic position of a business and the methods used in choosing and pursuing a strategic direction. There are two one and a half hour written examinations at the end of the AS course with a further three two hour written examinations at the end of the A Level course. Both the AS and A Level course allocate a minimum of 10% of marks to assess quantitative skills, such as: ratios, averages, fractions, percentages and calculating profit and loss. Business Studies New Linear A Level OCR - AS Level and A Level Course Outline: The course aims for pupils to develop an interest and enthusiasm for the study of business through gaining a holistic understanding of how businesses operate. For pupils to develop a critical understanding of organisations and their ability to meet society s needs and wants and that in doing so there is a need to be aware of ethical dilemmas and responsibilities faced by organisations and individuals. Meeting Customer Needs Business Objectives and Strategic Decisions External Influences Facing Businesses Marketing Mix and Marketing Strategies Entrepreneurs and leaders Managing People and Change Accounting and Financial Considerations The global Environment of Business Decision Making Techniques At AS, there are two external examinations. Both Units are 1 hour 30 minutes written papers. At A2 Level a further 3 Units are required to be covered and a 2 hour written examination for each unit sat. Two Year Courses Business Studies Level 3 BTEC (Double and Triple Award) Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course outline: The BTEC Level 3 in Business, which is equivalent to two or three GCE A Levels, aims to offer young people the chance to develop the skills, knowledge and attributes that they need to succeed in business, or to progress to further or higher education. The nature of the course is mainly coursework with one exam and several assessments. Students study the Business Environment including resources and communication. The course covers an Introduction to Marketing and the use of new technology. Students develop an understanding of Business (both National and International), Business Ethics, Economics, Retail, Human Resources, Communications Technology and Business Management. It is a mixture of coursework, assessments and one external exam. Chemistry New Linear A Level Course outline: The Chemistry course suits logical students and enables students to have access to a diverse range of courses at university such as Biochemistry, Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Environmental Sciences and Forensics. In Paper 1, students learn how the study of properties of materials enables chemists to deduce how elements are bonding. They will observe and explain patterns in the Periodic Table. They will use mathematics to work out the amount of chemicals in a given substance. In the Paper 2, students learn about Organic chemicals, such as Alkanes, Alkenes, Alcohols, Halogenoalkanes. Students develop problem solving skills through the use of spectroscopy. School and Course Guide

6 Two Year Courses This will be applied to the study of chemical processes occurring in the atmosphere, focusing on the depletion of the ozone layer and the greenhouse effect. There are two final examinations in the first year for AS, each of equal weighting and 1 hour 30 mins in duration. In the second year, the A Level assessment is done through three papers, each 2 hours in length. Practical skills are assessed through activities within the two years and a certificate is delivered at the end of the A Level course. Chemistry New Linear A Level Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course outline: The course introduces and extends the ideas and implications of modern chemistry, through experimental work. A wide range of experiments are undertaken by the student which support the teaching of key concepts. The course develops the key skills of data handling and analysis, thinking creatively, planning, problem solving, and the linking of ideas. The relationship between chemical bonding, structure, and the physical and chemical properties of substances. How energy transfers and changes to the order of the system, entropy, can be used determine the feasibility of reactions. The application of chemical principles to industrial chemistry and environmental chemistry. The course has several modules - leading to a standalone AS Level in Year 12, and a full A Level at the end of Year 13. A practical certificate is awarded to A level students who successfully complete the practical component of the course. Computing New Linear A Level OCR The new linear A level will focus on programming and emphasises the importance of computational thinking as a discipline. The course also has a focus on Maths, though much of this will be embedded within the course. Students will solve problems and design systems and software and will apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems. Course fundamentals Components of a computer and their uses Types of software and the methodologies used to develop them How data is exchanged between different systems How data is represented and stored in different structures and the use of different algorithms Laws surrounding the use and ethical issues that can arise from the use of computers What is meant by computational thinking How computers are used to solve problems and programs can be written to solve them The use of algorithms to describe problems and standard algorithms The A level is taught as three modules: 01. Computer systems: an externally marked question paper worth 40% (140 marks) with an examination of 2 hr 30 minutes. 02. Algorithms and programming: an externally marked question paper worth 40% (140 marks) with an examination of 2 hr 30 minutes. 03. Programming project: internally assessed, externally moderated project worth 20% (70 marks) NB The AS level does not have a third programming module and is split between modules 1 and 2 at 50% (70 marks) each. Drama & Theatre Studies New Linear A Level 2016 Edexcel - AS Level and A Level Course outline: This is an academic subject, recognised by the universities, designed to attract students with an interest in the theatre, TV and theatre production. The course covers theatrical practitioners, past and present, theatre history and the study of set plays, and the development of a critical analytical approach towards contemporary theatre. Students will be prepared to be actively engaged in theatre performance work. The course is delivered through a practical and analytical approach to theatre. The AS course is assessed through two units: 40% - Practical exploration of two texts supported by written analysis; 60% - Group and Monologue performance. The A Level course is assessed through two further units: 40% - Students create and original piece of theatre supported by written analysis; 60% - Written examination of two set texts. Drama & Theatre Studies New Linear A Level WJEC - AS Level and A level Course Outline: The course aims to develop an interest and enjoyment in drama and theatre both as a performer and an informed member of an audience and to foster an enthusiasm for and a critical appreciation of the subject. Taking Drama and Theatre Studies at A-level develops an understanding and appreciation of the significance of social, cultural and historical influences on the development of drama and theatre. Students develop a range of opportunities to develop a variety of dramatic and theatrical skills and put together theory and practice in workshops and classroom sessions. 6 School and Course Guide 2016

7 Unit 1 is a practical response to a text and practitioner, followed by Unit 2: the study of texts; writing about the ways that theatre directors and actors work. In the second year, in unit 3 students respond to a theme using acting and production skills and then in unit 4 write a response to an unseen text using the knowledge that they have gathered over the two years. Economics New Linear A Level Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course outline: The course aims to give an insight into key issues in the news affecting everyday life. Our goal is to allow you to understand the forces driving things like the price of oil, exchange rates and the level of unemployment in an economy. The subject is split into two main sections; microeconomics and macroeconomics. Whereas macro looks at the big issues affecting the economy as a whole, micro looks at a smaller scale. Government debt Unemployment Exchange rates Prices: why do they always seem to rise? Business: why and how do firms compete? In the first year of the course you will study two units (Competitive Markets and Managing the Economy). In year 13 you will study two further units (Business Economics and The Global Economy). & English Language New Linear A Level Edexcel A Level Course outline: This course covers language variation: how 21st century language varies according to identity and use, and how language has changed over time from 1550 to the present day. Students study how children between the ages of 0 and 8 learn to speak and write. Later in the course they submit a creative writing folder choosing between fiction or journalism genres, together with a reflective commentary. Finally they select a specialist language topic such as English dialects or language and power, and conduct their own linguistic investigation in preparation for examination. Extend GCSE skills, comparing how writers convey identity considering different genres, purposes and audiences Learn specific linguistic terminology to identify, label, sort and analyse language Link to History, Geography and foreign languages by understanding how English has developed over time Cross-over with Psychology and Sociology in the research, data gathering and experimental nature of a real language investigation, as well as the psycho-social reasons for using specific types of language. Develop their own creative writing. Three examinations on: Language Variation 2 hour 15 mins examination (35%); Child Language 1 hour (20%); Investigating Language (pre-release) 1 hour 45 mins (25%). A Crafting Language coursework folder is also submitted consisting of two pieces of original writing plus an analytical, reflective commentary (20%). Two Year Courses English Literature New Linear A Level OCR AS Level and A Level Course outline: The course aims to develop and improve students ability to understand and analyse literature across all three main forms: prose, poetry and drama. For success in English Literature, students must combine a thorough knowledge of the set texts with the ability to present a reasoned and coherent line of thought. The ability to compare different writers styles and approaches is a key objective along with an enthusiasm for literature and wide reading. Students enhance their skills on close prose analysis Students develop a consideration of how language and structure are manipulated for effect. Students gain an insight into the role of context in shaping great literature. Students compare texts across genres and time periods. Students evaluate different critical readings and perspectives on a text. The course is taught in modules at AS and in the A Level. The course is assessed through a mixture of Coursework and Examined Assessments. AS Level: Component 1 Shakespeare and Poetry, Pre (50% of AS). Examination 1 hour 30 mins. Component 2 Drama Post-1900 and Prose Post (50% of AS). Examination 1 hour 45 mins. A Level: Component 1 Shakespeare, Drama and Poetry, Pre (40% of A Level). Examination 2 hours 30 mins. Component 2 Comparative and contextual study. (40% of A Level) Examination 2 hours 30 mins. Component 3 Non-examined Assessment on Literature, Post (20%). & School and Course Guide

8 Two Year Courses English Language and Literature New Linear A Level Course outline: The course aims to develop and improve pupils ability to understand key ideas of grammar, lexis, syntax and the like in communication which may be verbal or written. Pupils understand how writers attempt to re-create rhythms of natural speech and dialogue in their literary works as well as developing ability to analyse language closely. Understanding of technical terminology and its application Understanding how language varies across different text types Ability to read a variety of texts and understand how meaning is created An understanding of the differences between spoken and written forms of communication. The course is taught in modules - the course may lead to an AS Level at the end of Year 12, with the full A Level at the end of Year 13.. The course is a mixture of Coursework and Exam Assessment. 100% exam at AS; 80% exam at A Level. Set texts include Frankenstein and the poetry of Seamus Heaney. Film Studies WJEC AS Level and A Level Course outline: Film Studies will engage you on an intellectual level in the study of film, film related materials and media. This study of the cinematic arts will be divided between both theoretical and complementary practical skills in digital film production. In Yr 12 students will gain experience in reading and analysing the language of film. This will then form the foundation of the rest of the course where they apply their knowledge by analysing a film of their choice and devising a film project creatively, applying appropriate planning and production skills effectively. In Yr 13 students will build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained in Yr 12 with greater depth of study. Students will learn how to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of film as an audiovisual form of creative expression. Students will understand the contexts of production and reception and of the diversity in filmmaking across different historical periods and locations. Students will apply their knowledge and understanding when exploring and analysing films and when evaluating their own creative projects to show how meanings and responses are generated. Demonstrate the ability to undertake, apply and present research into film topics. The course is taught in 4 units with the course leading to an AS Level at the end of Year 12, with the possibility of continuing in Year 13 to take the full A Level. Food Technology Course outline: Food technology is an exciting course that will allow you to gain a deep understanding of the relationship between design, materials, manufacture and marketing foods. This makes Food Technology a powerful foundation for higher education courses or as a qualification in its own right. An A Level in Food Technology will prepare students for higher education and a rewarding career as a food technologist or food designer. Other possible career paths include social work, nutritionist, teaching or medicine. Students study materials and components, market influences and manufacturing processes. Practical work includes designing, making and launching new products along with taste testing and analysis of existing products. Students develop their skills and knowledge through a mixture of classroom learning and practical learning-by-doing with the subject content applied to the design and manufacture of the student s own project. The course is assessed through four units; two in AS and a further two to complete the A Level. AS consists of two Units: Unit 1 (worth 50% of AS or 25% of A Level) 2 hour examination; Unit 2 (worth 50% of AS or 25% of A Level) 50 hours of coursework. A Level consists of a further two Units: Unit 3 (worth 25% of A Level) 2 hour written paper examination; Unit 4 (25% of A Level) 60 hours of coursework. Geography New Linear A Level Course outline: Geography is often regarded as a bridge between the arts and the sciences; it aims to develop an understanding of the variable nature of the earth s physical landscape and the complex nature of our own relationships and interactions with the environment. The course aims to investigate both Human and Physical Geography in greater depth. Topics include: Population, Health, Rivers, Coasts, Tectonics, World Cities and Ecosystems. Students will be engaged through the most up to date topical material as well as by attending field trips to carry out and learn techniques of geographical investigations. Students develop an enjoyment of both Human and Physical Geography Students gain an interest in the world around them and an appreciation of our planet Students further develop their high level of written communication skills. Students become proficient in analysing and interpreting graphical data Students are motivated enough to be independent learners and keep up with local and topical issues. The course is taught in two modules at AS and two further modules for A Level. Each year there is one examination on content and one on investigative skills. & 8 School and Course Guide 2016

9 Government and Politics Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course outline: Politics is a popular and well regarded subject and complements other arts and social science subjects like History, English, Geography, Sociology or Religious Studies. The course provides a useful grounding for careers in politics, law and journalism among others. There is an opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament and possibly also the European Parliament in Brussels. Students gain an awareness of political institutions and issues in the UK and the EU. Students build on knowledge of current political affairs, using documentaries, new programmes and newspaper coverage. Students will develop an ability to argue a point effectively and tolerate opposing views as well as gaining an understanding of issues that affect our daily lives such as the economy, welfare, elections and the mass media. The course is assessed through four external examinations with the first two sat at the end of the AS and an additional two making up the A Level. & Wimbledon College Health and Social Care (Single and Double Award) Course outline: This course helps students develop skills that will enable them to make an effective contribution to the care sector including skills of research, evaluation and problem-solving in a work-related context. The core units lead to the acquisition of specific inter-personal skills essential care work; explore the general functioning of the health, social and early years services; and identify potential career pathways. Students study Effective caring and communication Students who complete the double award cover the understanding of Health conditions and patient care pathways along with educating children and young people. The course is assessed through research projects and two externally assessed examinations. History New Linear A Level OCR A Level Course outline: Students will undertake breadth and depth studies to develop an understanding of a specific time period as well as the key events and turning points in History. Students build an extensive knowledge of the topics studied as well as developing skills such as analysis, evaluation and interpretation. Students study the Early Tudors in England ( ) Democracy and Dictatorship in Germany ( ) Students cover work on Civil Rights in the USA ( ) The Development of Rights for Women in Great Britain (1865-c.1918) is the core focus of the coursework assignment There are four units in the A Level: Units 1 and 2 are studied in Year 12 and Units 3 and 4 are studied in Year 13. Unit 1 British period study (25%). Examination: 1 hour 30 mins (Early Tudors) Unit 2 Non-British period study (15%) Examination: 1 hour (Democracy and Dictatorship in Germany) Unit 3 Thematic study on historical interpretations (40%). Examination: 2 hours 30 mins (Civil Rights in the USA) Unit 4 Coursework assignment 4000 word essay (20% - Development of Rights for Women) Two Year Courses History New Linear A Level OCR - A Level History A (H505) 2 Year Course Course outline: Students take one unit from each of unit groups 1 to 3 as well as the mandatory non exam assessment unit Y100 Topic based essay. British period study and enquiry (unit group 1) Unit Y110 - From Pitt to Peel Non-British period study (unit group 2) Unit Y223 The Cold War in Europe Thematic study and historical interpretations (unit group 3) Unit Britain and Ireland A word internally assessed essay on a guided topic choice Unit Y100 Students develop their interest in and enthusiasm for history and an understanding of its intrinsic value and significance. Students build on their understanding of the past through experiencing a broad and balanced course of study. Students develop their use and understanding of historical terms, concepts and skills and make links and draw comparisons within and/or across different periods and aspects of the past. Students organise and communicate their historical knowledge and understanding in different ways, arguing a case and reaching substantiated judgements. Unit groups 1 and 2 are taught in Year 12 but revisited prior to the end of course exams in Year 13. Unit group 3 will be taught from the summer term in Year 12 alongside the topic based essay preparation. Unit group 1 is worth 25% of the total A Level and is assessed in a 1 hour 30 minute paper containing a source analysis question and an essay question. Unit group 2 is worth 15% of the final A Level and is assessed in a 1 hour essay paper. Unit group 3 is worth 40% of the total A Level and is assessed by a 2 hour 30 minute paper containing one historical interpretation style question and an essay School and Course Guide

10 Two Year Courses question. The topic based essay ( words) is worth 20% of the total A Level and will be submitted at the end of the spring term in Year 13. ICT BTEC Nationals in IT Course outline: This new qualification provides students with up-to-date IT industry knowledge as well as a range of practical skills required to succeed in higher education and in a modern day career. Students will develop a common core of IT knowledge and study areas such as the relationship between hardware and software that form an IT system, managing and processing data to support business, using IT to communicate and share information, computational thinking skills and the principles of designing and developing computer programs. The objective of this qualification is to give learners the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in information technology systems, systems management and social media in business and programming. Learners will study these units: Unit 1 Information Technology Systems (Y13 Written exam) Unit 2 Creating Systems to Manage Information (Y-12 Controlled Assessment, externally assessed) Unit 3 Using Social Media in Business (Y12 Assignment, internally assessed) Option Unit: Optional Unit (Y13 Assignment, internally assessed) This course consists of 4 units in total including 3 mandatory units and 1 optional unit. This is a Level 3 course taught over 2 years and is equivalent to one A Level. The grades offered are Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction*. ICT Cambridge TEC Level 3 Course outline: This course is part of a new generation of vocational qualifications aimed specifically at students aged 16+. This course offers students an exciting, inspiring and challenging qualification created to develop transferable skills that are essential in the workplace or for further study. All the units studied are Centre assessed and examination board moderated. There is no external assessment for this qualification. Students develop communication and employability skills within ICT and study Information systems. Optional components of the course include: Website production, developing computer games, Computer animation, Spreadsheet modelling, E-commerce and Computer networks. This course consists of 6 units in total including 2 mandatory units and 4 optional units. This is a Level 3 course taught over 2 years equivalent to one A Level. The grades offered are Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction star. Mathematics Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course outline: For the suitable candidate, Mathematics is a valuable A Level qualification which has become increasing desirable in recent years as a support subject in areas such as Science, Geography, Economics and Business Studies. Courses are selected from a choice of modules that lead to a full AS or A Level in Mathematics. Compulsory modules include four Core modules which cover key concepts in Calculus and Trigonometry and applied modules on Mechanics and/or Statistics. A strong skill set of algebraic manipulation is essential to the development of skills from GCSE to A Level Applied modules make use of mathematical techniques within contextualised problem solving situations. Mechanics includes the study of motion, force, momentum and kinematics Statistics includes the study of probability, statistical diagrams, correlation and measures of average. The AS course is examined through three equally weighted examinations (Core 1, Core 2 and one of the Applied modules). The A Level course is examined through a further three equally weighted examinations (Core 3, Core 4 and a further applied module). Each module examination is 1 hour 30 mins. & Mathematics Further Mathematics Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course outline: This course is ideal for students who have a passion in Mathematics and who thrive on challenge. Students develop the skills to explore new and more sophisticated mathematical concepts beyond A Level Mathematics. The course is designed so that students aim for an A Level in Mathematics in their first year and then they move on to begin the Further Maths modules which build on prior knowledge and understanding. Students should already have a natural aptitude for solving problems and a great enjoyment of the subject. Problem solving is a key component of the course. The A Level in Further Mathematics is made up of 12 modules which leads to two A Levels. Each are assessed through a final examination worth equal weighting and each 1 hour 30 mins in length. In the first year students complete an A Level in Mathematics (6 modules see above). In the second year, students begin the Further modules with Further Pure 1, Further Pure 2 and more Additional modules from Statistics, Mechanics and Decision Maths. 10 School and Course Guide 2016

11 Modern Languages: French, German, Spanish Edexcel AS Level and A Level Course outline: Modern Languages are highly regarded by universities and studying a language at A Level offers the opportunity to not only continue with languages in further education, but also to integrate it as a part of many degrees, thus adding an extra life skill to your CV. The emphasis in new syllabuses is on contemporary issues and communication skills, the ability to discuss and debate contemporary and at times controversial society issues in the target language. The course provides many opportunities to attend conferences and cultural events throughout the year. There is also an opportunity for subsidised work experience abroad during February half term - in France, Spain or Germany which has proved an invaluable experience for previous students. Practice and experience of the language as well as the culture are gained through the weekly use of authentic topical material, e.g. newspaper, magazine articles, radio and TV programmes, now accessible via the internet. Students also have the opportunity and are encouraged to borrow DVDs. Students will study topics related to aspects of, culture, politics and literature of the countries where the language is spoken and students are expected to extend their studies at home using various forms of media; homework, prep work and independent learning sessions are all used to help the students acquire key further education study skills as well as to ensure that they experience and enjoy the language outside the classroom. In the teaching and learning the target language predominates and answers in English are kept to a minimum so students feel fully immersed. Some of the opportunities to attend conferences and cultural events, via the KS5 society include: students organising events / screening of films and seminar / debates attended via our Lingua Franca link with Kings College The course is assessed by a final examination. This consists of four modules (two for AS and a further two for the A Level). Unit 1 is the oral unit for AS and Unit 2 is the Listening, Reading and Writing assessment for AS. For the A Level there is an additional Oral unit (Unit 3) and a final written assessment (Unit 4). French & German Spanish & Music New Linear A Level Edexcel A Level Course outline: This course continues the format of study from the GCSE Music course and, as such, is divided between performing music, composing music and appraising a wide range of pieces. Students will learn to perform, compose and appreciate different types of music, developing critical and creative thinking, cultural, aesthetic and emotional awareness, and the ability to make music individually and as part of a group. All styles of music can be submitted for the performing and composing elements. Students will need to be able to follow conventional notation and be able to use notation software. performing music (30%) composing music (30%) appraising music (40%) The student will prepare a recital at least eight minutes in length in which they will perform one or more pieces. They can sing or play and this can be undertaken as a soloist or in an ensemble. The style of music performed is chosen by the candidate. Two Year Courses The composing element requires the submission of two compositions at least one of which has to be based on a brief set by Edexcel. It is likely that all candidates would use conventional notation and notation software for this although, depending on the style of music being composed and / or the given brief, it may be possible to use alternative scores. One composition has to be at least four minutes long and the other at least one minute long. In total both pieces must have a duration of at least six minutes. For the appraisal assessment students will study music from a range of styles and traditions including vocal music, instrumental music, music for film, popular music and jazz, fusions and new directions. There are three set works for each area. There is a final two hour written examination in which students knowledge and understanding is tested through a mixture of listening questions and written responses. School / (alternate years). Physical Education New Linear A Level OCR (H555) Course outline: Physical Education examines both the practical aspects of Physical Education but also the theoretical aspects such as Anatomy and Physiology, Acquiring Movement Skills, Sports Psychology and Socio-cultural/ Contemporary Issues. Students have the chance to coach or perform in a practical area of Physical Education. Students study three theoretical areas; Physiological & Physiological factors effecting performance with Socio- Cultural issues. Students further develop their understanding of the Physiology of the human body, the psychology of sport and the history of sport. Students can develop their leadership skills through coaching and leading in an area of sport. Students evaluate and analyse performance in their chosen sport. School and Course Guide